LayarHijau – The historical drama Pursuit of Jade (逐玉), starring Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei, has continued to dominate the ratings since its release. The drama’s popularity has also boosted the visibility of several supporting actors. Besides Kong Xueer, who went viral for her role as the tavern owner Yu Qianqian, viewers are now also paying close attention to Deng Kai.
Warning: The explanation of the story below contains spoilers.
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In the drama, Deng Kai plays Qi Min, the emperor’s eldest grandson, a character known for his obsessive and ambitious personality. He convincingly portrays Qi Min’s darker side, especially the character’s long-standing obsession with Yu Qianqian. His intense performance, combined with the director’s stylized visual approach, makes the character appear both charismatic and dangerous.
Deng Kai’s appearance has also drawn attention thanks to Qi Min’s distinctive look, with white hair and a gloomy gaze. Many viewers say this mysterious aura makes the character especially captivating. Some netizens even commented that his charm in this drama surpasses his previous appearances in dramas such as Unveil: Jadewind (唐宫奇案), The Wanted Detective (定风波), and The Blood of Youth (少年歌行).
In the latest episodes of Pursuit of Jade, the story not only highlights the romantic moments between Xie Zheng (Zhang Linghe) and Fan Changyu (Tian Xiwei), but also focuses on the complicated relationship between Yu Qianqian and Qi Min, which has lasted for years.
Qi Min is portrayed as the legitimate son of the late Crown Prince Chengde, who died tragically. In the past, he forcibly kept Yu Qianqian, who at the time was a concubine, by his side. While pregnant, Yu Qianqian eventually had to fake her own death to escape from him.
After the death of Crown Prince Chengde, the political situation changes drastically. The stubborn and obsessive Qi Min later finds a way to become the son of Prince Changxin as part of his plan for revenge. At the same time, he continues searching for Yu Qianqian, hoping to bring her back to his side—even if it means keeping her confined in the name of love.
Their reunion years later becomes one of the most intense moments in the drama. Yu Qianqian, who has been hiding her child from Qi Min, begins to feel that something about the man in front of her seems strangely familiar. However, in her memory, the man who once imprisoned her always wore a mask, had scars on his face, and spoke with a much deeper voice.
Because of that, she does not immediately realize that the white-haired man with a handsome face and gentle voice standing before her is actually the same person who once filled her life with fear.
Kong Xueer has received praise for portraying Yu Qianqian’s fear through subtle details. Her tense expressions, wary gaze, and trembling fingers make the character’s emotions feel vivid on screen. Her acting chemistry with Deng Kai is also widely praised, especially in scenes where Qi Min reveals an expression resembling a cat toying with its prey.
Before gaining attention in Pursuit of Jade, Deng Kai had already appeared in several popular dramas. In Unveil: Jadewind, he played Heng Wang Li Duo, a character who died after only one scene but still sparked discussion because of his strong presence and refined styling. In The Wanted Detective, he portrayed Zhuge Kongyun, a rival to the main character who still chooses justice when facing major decisions. Meanwhile, in The Blood of Youth, he played Prince Xiao Yu, an ambitious royal willing to do anything to obtain the throne.
Many fans believe that Qi Min in Pursuit of Jade is Deng Kai’s most iconic role so far. Even though the character is portrayed as dark and obsessive, his striking visual presence makes him even more compelling to watch.
